Walking in the paw prints of Wessex

Tue May 05 2026 at 01:00 pm to 02:30 pm UTC+01:00

National Trust - Max Gate | Dorchester

Dorchester Walking Festival
Publisher/HostDorchester Walking Festival
Walking in the paw prints of Wessex
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Join us for a walk along some of the pathways loved by Thomas Hardy and his pet dog, Wessex.
About this Event

Join us for a 2.5-mile stroll through the countryside near Hardy's home, Max Gate, to the resting place of William Barnes, the Dorset poet. Everyone welcome, dogs are optional but must be kept on a short lead!

Please note: The walk does not go inside the grounds of Max Gate. If you want to visit the house please arrive at Max Gate at least an hour prior to the walk departure time to ensure you can enjoy Max Gate and the gardens. An entry fee will apply to go into Max Gate and National Trust members can visit the house for free (walk participants will be able to use the toilets either at the start or end of the walk).

Proceeds from this walk will be donated to The National Trust

Walk Leader: Andrew Munro

Walk length: 4 km

Walk start: Meet at the large white gate which is the entrance to Max Gate on Alington Avenue

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Dog friendly - please keep all dogs on a short lead

Terms and conditions:

We offer refunds up to 7 days before any booked walks. Any cancellations will be subject to Eventbrite fees.

Please arrive at the meeting point a minimum of 10 minutes before the advertised start time. Walks will start on time whether all participants have arrived or not. Finishing times are approximate and may vary.

The walk leader is in complete charge of the walk. Routes/events may be changed and distances are approximate.

Walks will only be cancelled if conditions could put participants in danger. The organisers will contact participants directly should this be the case.

Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.

It is the responsibility of all participants to ensure that they are physically fit enough to take part in the walks they have booked onto.

It is essential that all participants wear appropriate footwear, clothing and equipment.

Dorchester Walking Festival contact: 07983 897051

Organised by Dorchester Town Council


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Event Venue & Nearby Stays

National Trust - Max Gate, Alington Avenue, Dorchester, United Kingdom

Tickets

GBP 3.00

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